Ports 1961

If the experience of going to a show at Lincoln Center can feel like you’re checking in for an airport flight, the experience of going to this season’s Ports 1961 show felt like stopping in for an afternoon cup of tea with Brooke Astor. Shown in a gorgeous Fifth Avenue townhouse, soft jazz played as guests found their seats, which were split between multiple rooms within the gilded mansion. There wasn’t the chaotic frenzy you get at most shows, and given the reigned-in guest list this season, the room was filled with true Ports 1961 fans. How do I know? Nearly everyone, at least in the section where I was seated, had on at least one piece from one of the brand’s previous collections.

3.1 Phillip Lim

Phillip Lim has developed a reputation as one of the most popular contemporary designers. His pieces can be easily integrated into any woman’s wardrobe, which gives him the unique opportunity to play with proportion, trends, and fabric without alienating his clientele.

Yigal Azrouel

Talk about completely unexpected. This season is turning out to be one of the most refreshing since the recession began to affect the runway. Joining the likes of Diane von Furstenberg andJ. Mendel, Yigal Azrouel took some risks and went in a new direction for his Fall 2011 collection. The results? Stellar.

Nanette Lepore

Pretty, wearable pieces were present on the Nanette Lepore Fall 2011 Runway, but the collection was altogether a bit messy and schizophrenic. Where combining textures usually imparts a rich, complex look, it only confused the viewer and took away from chunky knits or iridescent silk dresses that could have otherwise shone on their own.